CLEAR THINKING

This series of four seven-minutes long films is intended for the education of school-children aged about 11 or older. The goal is to give them tools to critically review information and to understand what characterizes scientific thinking.

A teacher's guide is provided that gives background information and aids the use of the films in teaching.

The teacher's guide was commissioned and written by the Nobel Prize Museum, Stockholm, Sweden.

Program 1-4

Scientific Method and Celestial Bodies

Program 1

Scientific Method and Vaccination

Program 2

Avoiding Mind Traps

Program 3

Argument Fallacies

Program 4

The four films

The first two films describe the scientific method, and show its power by comparing the evolution of scientific and pseudo-scientific concepts, appearing at about the same time in history. The two illustrative examples are: about 2,000 years of progress in astronomy vs. astrology, and about 200 years of progress with vaccines vs. homeopathic preparations.

The last two films deal with how we think, and how we communicate our thoughts. For example, they are about the incorrect conclusions that we might draw when we think too quickly and intuitively. Using examples, they show how to recognize different kinds of disinformation and how to carry on constructive discussions by avoiding argumentation fallacies.

The teacher's guide

The teacher's guide supports and extends the scope of all four films. It gives references to further reading, provides background information and examples that highlight the message of the films. Tests and experiments are suggested that could be useful when working with the films in the classroom.